Orange County is taking significant steps to address its housing challenges, as highlighted during the recent meeting of the Housing Task Force on May 29, 2025. The gathering featured key insights from the senior vice president of housing programs and solutions at Repco, a nonprofit organization dedicated to creating and preserving affordable housing in the Hudson Valley.

The speaker expressed enthusiasm for the formation of the Housing Task Force, emphasizing the importance of collaboration in tackling the region's housing issues. Repco, which has been active for over 40 years, has expanded its reach beyond Ulster County to serve all nine counties in the Hudson Valley, with a strong focus on Orange County since 2015. The organization is committed to building affordable housing, providing HUD-certified counseling, and administering various housing programs.

A central theme of the meeting was the need for a unified regional model to enhance housing solutions. The speaker outlined a personal leadership challenge aimed at transforming Repco's housing programs to better support communities and ensure sustainable access to housing for all residents. This initiative underscores the urgency of addressing the housing market's current state in Orange County, where demand continues to outpace supply.

The discussions also highlighted the collaborative spirit among task force members, with an open invitation for dialogue and input on the pressing housing issues facing the community. As the task force moves forward, the focus will remain on leveraging existing tools and resources to make a tangible difference in the lives of Orange County residents.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to ongoing conversations and actions that will shape the future of housing in the region, reinforcing the importance of community engagement in finding effective solutions.